Top > What's up around the Prime Minister > October, 2004

Japan-Viet Nam Summit Meeting Sunday, October 10, 2004 During his visit to Viet Nam, Prime Minister Junichiro Koizumi held a meeting in Hanoi with Mr. Phan Van Khai, the Prime Minister of the Socialist Republic of Viet Nam on the morning of October 10. At the meeting, Prime Minister Koizumi said, "Japan will give priority to Viet Nam in providing its official development assistance (ODA) although Japan is in a tight financial state. As Japan deems environmental issues important, it will support such measures." He then announced that Japan will actively provide ODA to Viet Nam, facilitate cultural exchanges such as enhancement of Japanese language education and give cooperation for the excavation and preservation of the remains of Thang Long in Hanoi. In response, regarding the assistance provided by Japan Prime Minister Khai said, "We need assistance in such areas of improvement as social capital and medical care. We have a high expectation for Japan." Prime Minister Koizumi expressed his appreciation for Viet Nam announcing its support at the General Assembly for Japan becoming a permanent member of the Security Council by saying, "I am grateful for the support." Prime Minister Koizumi left for Japan on the government plane that afternoon.